Getting injured while working under the scope of your employment can be a confusing and frustrating situation. Thankfully, the state’s workers’ compensation laws help anyone hurt on the job collect the benefits they need to get back on their feet. The program allows employees to collect payment without filing a civil claim or litigating against their employer. It also protects businesses from lawsuits filed by employees.
When they file their claim correctly, injured workers can recover compensation for the full extent of their medical bills and many setbacks. However, the process of filing a claim can be a challenge for people who proceed alone. A Torrance workers’ compensation lawyer could help with paperwork and submitting everything according to state law.
After a workplace injury, acting quickly is the most important thing that an employee should do. For example, the first thing to do is seek any necessary medical treatment. A worker can go to any doctor or hospital in the case of an emergency, and if the situation does not require immediate treatment, they should ask their employer about a list of approved care providers.
Additionally, an injured team member must report the accident to their employer right away. Forgetting to report an injury within 30 days of an accident will likely limit an employee’s opportunity to collect any benefits. After communicating the injury or illness in writing, the worker must submit a claim for compensation to their insurance provider, within a year.
After an employee suffers an illness or injury while on the job, the employer must do the following:
A detail-oriented lawyer in Torrance could help make sure that all employers and businesses uphold their end of the worker’s compensation agreement.
Under California’s workers’ compensation statute, employers must pay all the medical bills and expenses associated with an accident or injury. As per the California Labor Code Section § 4600, refusal by an employer to cover all medical expenses will result in the business being liable for the reasonable costs a team member accrues while they recover. Reasonable expenses include all medical bills, surgeries, physical therapy sessions, emergency room visits, and the cost of prescription medication. A tenacious attorney in Torrance could help someone ensure their employer does not deny worker’s compensation for any of these expenses.
If you sustained injuries while on the job, contacting an experienced legal professional could help you quickly get the benefits you deserve. Accepting a settlement without having a knowledgeable team member review it first could result in less coverage than your situation warrants. This could leave you with less money than you need to recover.
Schedule a meeting with a skilled Torrance workers’ compensation lawyer today. A dedicated attorney could investigate the accident, collect relevant information, and handle negotiations with an insurance provider. Our paperless law firm offers a diverse staff who speak many languages. Call today to schedule your initial consultation.
